Religion & Spirituality
Preaching for the First Sunday of Advent, Crista Carrick Mahoney offers a reflection on “staying awake,” even when we’re already tired: “We’ve been on high alert for nearly two years, so sometimes these Advent reminders to stay awake, pay attention, be ready, only feed the weariness. It’s ok to feel tired! In that barely awake state, in those moments when we feel more anxious, less patient, or we are just having an 'off day', we can still meet the world with love and compassion, because we, too, are being met as we are by a God who fulfills promises out of love and fidelity. Even in our tiredness, we can meet the world as it is with a posture of openness that will help wake us up and participate in the hope, peace, joy and love of this holy season of preparation.” Crista Mahoney earned her Master of Divinity from Boston College School of Theology and Ministry. Her professional ministry began in campus ministry at Emmanuel College in Boston, MA, then as the Catholic Chaplain on a multi-faith team at Babson College in Wellesley, MA, before returning to her alma mater, the College of the Holy Cross, to work with students on retreats and women’s faith sharing groups. Crista also coordinates and edits the Return To Me: Lenten Reflection Series at Holy Cross. Visit www.catholicwomenpreach.org/preaching/11282021 to learn more about Crista, to read her text, and for more preaching from Catholic women.